Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 1

Public Comments and Responses

A

A FRA has invited STB to be a cooperating 

agency.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 2

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INTENIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 3

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 4

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A MnDOT would include the Surface 

Transportation Board in the list of approvals that 

may be required.

B MnDOT would coordinate with the Surface 

Transportation Board regarding Section 106 

process, as directed by FRA. Surface 

Transportation Board involvement in project 

would be addressed by FRA is separate 

correspondence. 

C Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 5

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 6

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

A The greater detail about the alternatives 

selection process is found in Appendices C-1 

and C-2 in the EA. The Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would not revisit 

the route selection. Appendix B of the Tier 1 EA

includes FRA correspondences, dated July 29, 

2011 concurring with the identification of Route 

9 as the Preferred Alternative. 

B MnDOT would coordinate with appropriate 

agencies during the Tier 2 Project Level NEPA 

and obtain permits from relevant agencies as 

required during the permitting process. 

C MnDOT would include wetland delineations, 

avoidance, minimization and mitigation 

sequencing, and permit information as required 

during Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments. MnDOT would continue to 

coordinate with appropriate agencies until 

permit requirements are completed.

D MnDOT would include current information 

pertaining to the SHPO agreements and 

compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA in 

the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 7

Public Comments and Responses

E

F

G

H

I

E Continued from previous page.

F Existing transportation modes between 

Minneapolis and Duluth have inherent problems 

including congestion near the Twin Cities and 

during inclement weather. Passenger rail service 

can provide an additional travel alternative. The 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would further analyze and refine the purpose and 

need. 

G MnDOT would include all necessary analysis 

pertaining to stations, termini, and ancillary 

facilities in the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments.

H The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would conduct more detailed air 

quality analysis, including general conformity 

modeling, if needed, to determine air quality 

impacts.

I MnDOT would provide a cumulative impact 

analysis consistent with NEPA regulations in the 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 8

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 9

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Comment noted.

Following completion of the Tier 1 Service 

Level NEPA document and the associated 

decision document, the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would include 

MnDOT coordination with the DNR, where 

necessary, on measures to minimize the potential 

for impacts to species of concern, including 

Blanding’s and Wood turtles.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 10

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A MnDOT would coordinate with the appropriate 

agencies during the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments and obtain permits 

from relevant agencies as required during the 

permitting process. 

B This technical update is noted in the Finding of 

No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact 

and Conclusions document.

C This technical update is noted in the Finding of 

No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact 

and Conclusions document.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 11

Public Comments and Responses

D

E

F

D “Multiple Activity” sites were researched to determine 

the types of activities that have occurred at each location. 

Multiple Activity sites for which all activities were 

considered low risk were eliminated from the search 

results. Low risk sites include properties where minor 

volumes of chemicals or hazardous materials have been 

used or stored. Other types of sites (small hazardous 

waste generators, stormwater permits and wastewater 

discharge) were removed from the search results due to 

low potential for contamination, or because the MPCA 

activity is not relevant to studying the impacts of the 

project.

E The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessments

would contain greater detail on environmental impacts 

identified in preliminary engineering, including 

consultation and coordination with federal and state 

agencies through final design and permitting as necessary 

to minimize impacts.

F Appropriate measures would be taken during construction 

to avoid spills that could contaminate groundwater or 

surface water in the project area. In the event that a leak 

or spill occurs during construction, appropriate action to 

remediate the situation would be taken immediately, in 

accordance with MPCA and/or WDNR containment and 

remedial action procedures, as appropriate (see section 

4.8 of the EA).
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 12

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A MnDOT would coordinate with the Douglas 

County Zoning Administrator if proposed 

culvert replacements and extensions may 

potentially increase backwater flood elevations.

B MnDOT would coordinate with the Douglas 

County Zoning Administrator if proposed bridge 

rehabilitation work may potentially increase 

backwater flood elevations. 

C MnDOT would submit a storm water 

management plan for areas of new track or 

station construction if it is needed to meet the 

post-construction performance standards of NR 

151.24.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 13

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

Safety concerns such as derailment and flying 

debris would also be addressed, as needed, 

during the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.

Refined noise studies would be done, if needed,

based on preliminary engineering as part of the 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.

Vibration levels typically decreases very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high-speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains (see section 4.7.4 of the EA). Tier 

2 Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would analyze potential vibration impacts in 

further detail, if needed. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 14

Public Comments and Responses

B

B When projects are developed, stops are 

determined by ridership. For an effective high 

speed rail corridor, competitive time must be 

attained or the project would not achieve the 

necessary public benefit to be deemed eligible 

for future public funding. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 15

Public Comments and Responses

Responses to comments from the City of Braham are 

addressed on the previous two pages.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 16

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 17

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 18

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light signals 

with gates, fencing in urban areas, track improvements 

and communication systems upgrades would be 

addressed in the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments (see section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

If needed, the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would further investigate the potential 

for debris impacts to properties and conduct further 

noise and vibration studies.

B Counties, cities, and townships would be invited to 

participate in evaluating their at-grade crossings 

during an on-site diagnostic review to determine the 

appropriate treatment. The diagnostic reviews are 

expected to take place in 2014.

C Private at-grade crossings, such as the Braham Area 

Sportsman’s Club, are subject to further discussion 

and will be worked out on a case-by-case basis. By 

law, no property can be landlocked and access must be 

provided.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 19

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

A This technical correction is noted in the Finding 

of No Significant Impact and the Findings of 

Fact and Conclusions document.

B

The 14 at-grade crossing reference is an estimate 

that equates to 30% to 40% of anticipated 

private crossing closures discussed in section 4.2 

of the EA.

C Fencing was a concern that was identified in 

previous consultation with agencies. During 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments, MnDOT would coordinate with 

agencies and local jurisdictions to determine 

how fencing would be addressed.

D Comment noted.

E These technical updates are noted in the Finding 

of No Significant Impact and the Findings of 

Fact and Conclusions document.

F-I continued on next page.
Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 20

Public Comments and Responses

Continued from previous page.

F Noise: Section 4.7.4 of the EA describes the noise analysis methodology which follows FRA protocols. The methodology is detailed in the NLX 

Environmental Assessment Noise and Vibration Technical Report and Addendum, April 2011, available on the project 

website http://www.dot.state.mn.us/nlx/. The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessments would analyze potential noise impacts in further 

detail, as needed.

Vibration: Vibration levels typically decrease very rapidly as the distance from the vibration source increases. The vibration levels from highspeed trains are generally much lower in level than freight trains due to lighter equipment. The track standards for a high-speed train system are 

typically higher than for freight service, resulting in smoother rails. . 

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessments would analyze vibration impacts, if needed.

G This technical correction is noted in the Finding of No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions document.

H Urban fencing is intended for safety reasons. MnDOT would communicate with affected communities in order to address concerns. 

I These technical updates are noted in the Finding of No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions document.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 21

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

A Project support noted.

B The Tier 1 Service Level EA addressed layover track at the 

south and north project termini. It described the need for 

future layover facilities, but has not identified a southern 

(facility) location which, if needed, would be studied during

the Tier 2 Project Level Assessments. The Tier 1 Service 

Level EA did identify a layover facility location for Duluth 

however, environmental analysis and further study would

occur during the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessment. 

C Opposition to Operations and Maintenance facility within the 

City of Minneapolis noted.

D

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessments would

include additional analysis of projected NLX ridership.

E MnDOT would coordinate with the City and appropriate 

watersheds to acquire any necessary stormwater or erosion 

control permits, as required during the permitting process.

F MnDOT, Hennepin County, City of Minneapolis, and private 

land owners in the area of the Interchange reached agreement 

in 2012 on easements, including compensation paid to 

appropriate parties for land rights that preserves the Cedar 

Lake Trail and land for an expanded passenger rail terminal. 

NLX design assumptions in the Interchange are consistent 

with these agreements.

G The Tier 1 Service Level EA is a corridor-level analysis that 

addresses concept-level engineering improvements. The Tier 

2 Project Level Environmental Assessments would address a 

more detailed analysis of project elements such as right of 

way, noise, vibration, crossings and bridges, due to additional 

track.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 22

Public Comments and Responses

H

I

J

K

L

H Please see response to comment F on previous 

page.

I This technical update is noted in the Finding of 

No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact 

and Conclusions document.

J This technical update is noted in the Finding of 

No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact 

and Conclusions document.

K This technical update is noted in the Finding of 

No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact 

and Conclusions document.

L Noise: Section 4.7.4 of the EA describes the 

noise analysis methodology which follows FRA 

protocols. The methodology is detailed in the 

NLX Environmental Assessment Noise and 

Vibration Technical Report and Addendum, 

April 2011, available on the project 

website http://www.dot.state.mn.us/nlx/. 

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would analyze potential noise 

impacts in further detail, as needed.

Vibration: Vibration levels typically decrease 

very rapidly as the distance from the vibration 

source increases. The vibration levels from highspeed trains are generally much lower level than 

freight trains (see section 4.7.4 of the EA). In 

addition, track standards for a high-speed train 

system are typically higher than for freight 

service, resulting in smoother rails. The Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would analyze potential vibration impacts, in 

further detail, if needed.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 23

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

E

A This technical correction is noted in the Finding 

of No Significant Impact and the Findings of 

Fact and Conclusions document.

B It is noted that the park area abutting the rail 

corridor in the south is Robinson Park (not 

Banning State Park). This technical correction is 

noted in the Finding of No Significant Impact 

and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions 

document. 

No direct impacts to this park land are 

anticipated; noise impacts identified in the EA as 

being to Banning State Park would be to 

Robinson Park.

Robinson Park does not appear, by that name, on 

the Minnesota Historical Society’s on-line 

listing of National Register properties; however, 

it contains the Kettle River Sandstone Quarry, 

which is listed on the National Register of 

Historic Places. The effect on historic properties 

would be determined in the Tier 2 Project Level 

environmental studies. 

C This technical correction is noted in the Finding 

of No Significant Impact and the Findings of 

Fact and Conclusions document.

D It is noted that, while the tracks are not within 

the City limits, there are a number of retail and 

residential buildings located west of the tracks,

which effectively are part of the Sandstone 

community.

E This technical correction is noted in the Finding 

of No Significant Impact and the Findings of 

Fact and Conclusions document.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 24

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 25

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 26

Public Comments and Responses

A

A This technical update is noted in the Finding of 

No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact 

and Conclusions document.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 27

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 28

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J
Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 29

Public Comments and Responses

A Project support noted.

B

The Tier 1 Service Level NEPA document evaluates the impacts of the project as a whole, with a focus on corridor-wide and more qualitative 

impacts. Following completion of the Tier 1 Service Level NEPA document and the associated decision document, the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would include additional analysis of projected NLX ridership.

C

 Preliminary engineering would further analyze scheduling and location of a potential layover facility for NLX. Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would concentrate on NLX facility needs and would not evaluate facility needs for other high speed rail lines. 

However, corresponding opportunities and conflicts would be identified.

D

 The Tier 1 Service Level EA addressed layover track at the south and north project termini. It described the need for future layover facilities, 

but has not identified a southern (facility) location which, if needed, would be studied during the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental

Assessments. The Tier 1 Service Level EA did identify a layover facility location for Duluth however; environmental analysis and further 

study would occur during the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessment. Minor repairs would be conducted at a light maintenance 

facility, the location for the light maintenance facility would be determined during the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessment. 

Potential vandalism concern is noted. Further analysis of current Northstar train layover and its impact on NLX would be addressed as part of 

preliminary engineering. 

E Metro Transit ridership data information was current from the Metro Transit website at the time the EA was prepared. Northstar is discussed 

earlier in Section 2.2.3 of the EA.

F Preliminary engineering would include additional analysis on whether the new double track section can be added on the NW corner of the wye 

without impacting existing facilities.

G This technical correction is noted in the Finding of No Significant Impact and the Findings of Fact and Conclusions document.

H Equipment specifications and platform height would be further defined in preliminary engineering. The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would include additional analysis regarding type(s) of rail car, platform height, compatibility and ADA compliance.

I The Dock Street Apartments were not constructed during the time of the Tier 1 noise and vibration analysis. This site would be included in 

future noise and vibration analyses for the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental assessments, as needed. 

J At the time the text was prepared, the Cedar Lake Bike Trail Extension was proposed. Platform extension would not directly impact the trail.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 30

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

A Comment noted.

B MnDOT would send preliminary plans to the 

Metropolitan Council Environmental Services 

for review and comment prior to initiating the 

project.

C The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would reference the most current 

local plans.

D The Tier 1 Service Level NEPA document 

evaluates the impacts of the project as a whole, 

with a focus on corridor-wide and more 

qualitative impacts. Following completion of the 

Tier 1 Service Level NEPA document and the 

associated decision document, the Tier 2 Project 

Level Environmental Assessments would

include additional analysis of projected NLX 

ridership.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 31

Public Comments and Responses

E

E Comments noted. 

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would include additional analysis 

of projected NLX ridership and travel times.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 32

Public Comments and Responses

F

G

F The location of receptors where the noise 

measurements were taken is provided in the NLX 

Environmental Assessment Noise and Vibration 

Technical Report and Addendum, April 2011, 

available on the project 

website http://www.dot.state.mn.us/nlx/. 

The closest receptor was in Coon Rapids, 

approximately 4 miles to the south at a 

residential property proximate to the corridor. 

The Ldn was 62 dBA and the Leq was 47 dBA. 

G Additional noise analysis would be done, as 

necessary, during Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments when more refined 

engineering information is available.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 33

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 34

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Comments noted. MnDOT would reference the 

most current version of the Pine City 

Comprehensive Plan during completion of the 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 35

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Comments noted. MnDOT would coordinate 

with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community if 

any cultural or significant traditional / 

ceremonial findings arise.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 36

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Comments noted. MnDOT would follow all 

state laws and protocols.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 37

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A The Tier 1 Service Level EA addressed layover 

track at the south and north project termini. It 

described the need for future layover facilities, 

but has not identified a southern (facility) 

location which would be studied during the Tier 

2 Project Level Environmental Assessments.. 

B Currently there are no facilities identified in the 

southern terminus of the NLX project. If 

potential NLX facilities are identified in the 

southern terminus area, Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would address 

project elements including environmental justice 

as required by NEPA.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 38

Public Comments and Responses

C

D

E

F

C The Alliance for Metropolitan Stability’s 

comments on the Interchange Feasibility Study 

dated February 2012 are included in this 

document. As these comments are on a separate 

project, no response is indicated.

D The Tier 1 Service Level Environmental 

Assessment evaluates the impacts of the project 

as a whole with a focus on corridor-wide and 

more qualitative impacts. Pursuant to Executive 

Order 12898 an Environmental Justice analysis 

was completed and is included in Section 4.14. 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would address all environmental elements 

including Environmental Justice as required by 

NEPA.

E The Tier 1 Service Level Environmental 

Assessment is a corridor-level analysis that 

addresses concept-level engineering 

improvements; for NLX, all improvements are 

within the existing rail corridor. The Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments

would address project elements and more 

detailed analysis where there is potential for 

impacts, including public involvement as 

required by NEPA. Project updates and 

newsletters would be available at mndot.gov/nlx 

for preliminary engineering and Project Level 

Environmental Assessments.

F MnDOT would include all potential affected 

neighborhood associations on the project update 

notification list. MnDOT would coordinate with 

neighborhood associations to identify locations 

where the community gathers and/or accesses 

services to include in the assessment of impacts 

for the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 39

Public Comments and Responses

February 16, 2012 Alliance for Metropolitan Stability 

comments regarding the Interchange Draft 

Environmental Assessment (Included per Alliance for 

Metropolitan Stability request). As these comments are 

on a separate project, no response is indicated.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 40

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 41

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 42

Public Comments and Responses

June 22, 2011 letter from the Harrison Neighborhood 

Association (Included as an attachment to comments 

from the Alliance for Metropolitan Stability). As these 

comments are on a separate project, no response is 

indicated.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 43

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 44

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 45

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 46

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 47

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 48

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 49

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 50

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 51

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 52

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A The project’s purpose and need is to provide an 

alternative mode of travel that has competitive 

travel time compared to highway travel (see 

section 1.0 of the EA). Preliminary engineering 

and Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would further analyze cost, 

ridership, operations and environmental impacts. 

B Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 53

Public Comments and Responses

C

C Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 54

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A Project opposition noted.

B Concerns about project viability, cost, and 

connecting transportation at station locations are 

addressed in Appendices C-1 and C-2. The Tier 

2 Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would include additional analysis of projected 

NLX ridership, travel times, costs and 

interconnectivity. 

C See response B above.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 55

Public Comments and Responses

D

D Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

Further economic and cost analysis would be 

evaluated during preliminary engineering. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 56

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

A Project opposition noted.

B The selected alternative (Route 9) was chosen as 

a result of a three-level analysis process based 

on how well each of the initial 17 alternative 

corridors met the project’s purpose and need 

(see Appendices C-1 and C-2 of the EA).

C Initial cost estimates were based on high level 

concept engineering. The project development 

process involves progressively more detailed 

engineering that informs revised cost estimates.

D Additional economic analysis would be 

completed as part of the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessment.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 57

Public Comments and Responses

E

F

 

E It is anticipated that the State of Minnesota, 

Department of Transportation would be 

responsible for the administration and operation 

of the high speed intercity passenger rail service.

F The project’s purpose and need is to provide an 

alternative mode of travel that has competitive 

travel time compared to highway travel (see 

section 1.0 of the EA). Preliminary engineering 

and Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would further analyze cost, 

ridership, operations and environmental impacts.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 58

Public Comments and Responses

F

F See response F above.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 59

Public Comments and Responses

F

F See response F above.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 60

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would analyze potential noise 

impacts in further detail, as needed.

 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 61

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A More detailed cost analysis would be done in 

preliminary engineering. 

B Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 62

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Support for Cambridge City Center station

noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 63

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project support noted.

B Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 64

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project support noted.

B Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 65

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments include additional analysis of 

projected ridership, costs, and intermodal 

connectivity for passengers continuing beyond 

the immediate vicinity of station locations.

B Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 66

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 67

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 68

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 69

Public Comments and Responses

A

A The Tier 1 Service Level NEPA document 

evaluates the impacts of the project as a whole, 

with a focus on corridor-wide and more 

qualitative impacts. The preliminary 

engineering and Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would further 

analyze ridership and project costs discussed in 

the newspaper article. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 70

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

B A refined noise study would be done, if needed,

based on preliminary engineering as part of the 

Tier 2 Project Level NEPA.

C Safety concerns such as derailment would also 

be addressed, as needed, during the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 71

Public Comments and Responses

D

E

D See response A about fencing.

E The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would include additional analysis 

of impacts to adjacent residences and businesses 

if needed, and impact minimization and 

mitigation, if warranted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 72

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A Refined noise studies would be done, if needed,

based on preliminary engineering as part of the 

Tier 2 Project Level NEPA.

B Vibration levels typically decreases very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high-speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains (see section 4.7.4 of the EA). Tier 

2 Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would analyze potential vibration impacts in 

further detail, if needed. 

C Safety concerns such as derailment and flying 

debris would be addressed, as needed, during the 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 73

Public Comments and Responses

D

E

D See response C above.

E In order to address impacts at Braham, the 

track alignment has been modified as discussed 

during the April 3, 2012 City Council Meeting 

and April 23, 2012 Open House in Braham. By 

narrowing the track centers, the refined footprint 

avoids all direct property impacts and keeps the 

footprint within the existing railroad right of 

way (see Appendix E of the EA).
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 74

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 75

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 76

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

B Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 77

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Alternatives analysis was conducted prior to 

selecting the Minneapolis to Duluth route (Route 

9). Greater detail about the alternatives 

selection process is found in Appendices, C-1 

and C-2 in the Tier 1 EA. Appendix B of the 

Tier 1 EA includes FRA correspondences, dated 

July 29, 2011 concurring with the identification 

of Route 9 as the Preferred Alternative.

B Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 78

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project opposition noted.

B Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

Vibration levels typically decrease very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains (see section 4.7.4 of the EA).

Section 4.7.4 of the EA described the noise 

analysis methodology which follows FRA 

protocols. 

Refined noise and vibration studies would be 

done, if needed, based on preliminary 

engineering as part of the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 79

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Ridership analysis and forecasting would be 

done as part of the preliminary engineering and 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments. 

B The proposed route is being built on existing 

freight rail track. Tier 2 project level 

Environmental Assessments and preliminary 

engineering would analyze and refine the project 

footprint in order to minimize and/or avoid 

impacts to wetlands, prairies and contaminated 

sites.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 80

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project support noted.

B Comments noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 81

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted. When projects are 

developed, stops are determined by ridership. 

For an effective high speed rail corridor, 

competitive time must be attained or the project 

would not achieve the necessary public benefit 

to be deemed eligible for future public funding. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 82

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 83

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project opposition noted.

B Infrastructure, operating and maintenance costs 

would be further analyzed in preliminary 

engineering.

Crime aboard high speed passenger trains has 

not been a significant issue nationwide. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 84

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 85

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 86

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 87

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Further analysis of ridership and project cost 

would occur in preliminary engineering. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 88

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A The selected alternative (Route 9) was chosen 

as a result of a three-level analysis process based 

on how well each of the initial 17 alternative 

corridors met the project’s purpose and need 

(see Appendices C-1 and C-2 of the EA).

B Comments noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 89

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 90

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project support noted.

B Support for Foley Station in Coon Rapids noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 91

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted. Electric rail would 

require significant cost in infrastructure that 

diesel would not.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 92

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Suggestion to use electric rail instead of diesel is 

noted. Electric rail would require significant 

cost in infrastructure that diesel would not. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 93

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted. Safety enhancements 

such as flashing light signals with gates, fencing 

in urban areas, track improvements and 

communication systems upgrades would be 

addressed in the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments (see section 3.2.2.2 

in the EA).

Vibration levels typically decrease very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high-speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains (see section 4.7.4 of the EA). Tier 

2 Project Level Environmental Assessments 

would analyze potential vibration impacts in 

further detail, if needed.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 94

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted. 

Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

Vibration levels typically decrease very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains, due to lighter equipment. 

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessment would analyze potential noise 

and vibration impacts, in further detail, if 

needed.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 95

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments would include additional analysis 

of potential impacts to adjacent residences and 

businesses, if needed. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 96

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Soil suitability in areas of new track would be 

investigated during preliminary engineering. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 97

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 98

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Opposition noted.

Initial cost estimates were based on high level 

concept engineering. The project development 

process involves progressively more detailed 

engineering that informs revised cost estimates.

The source of revenue for operating and 

maintenance cost would be addressed as part of 

the Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessment and preliminary engineering
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 99

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 100

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project opposition noted.

B The south terminus is in Minneapolis (see 

section 1.0 of the EA). There is a station 

proposed in Coon Rapids. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 101

Public Comments and Responses

A

A The distribution of the EA followed state rules. 

A press release was sent to newspapers in each 

county along the corridor on March 15, 2013. 

The Tier 1 Service Level Environmental 

Assessment was also distributed to various 

libraries and county offices in accordance with 

state laws and typical practice for a project of 

this magnitude. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 102

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 103

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

Vibration levels typically decrease very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains, due to lighter equipment. . 

The Tier 2 project level Environmental 

Assessment would analyze potential noise and 

vibration impacts in further detail, if needed.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 104

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 105

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 106

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.

The source of revenue for operating and 

maintenance would be addressed as part of the 

Tier 2 Project Level Environmental Assessment 

and preliminary engineering.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 107

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Interconnectivity with other modes would be 

addressed in preliminary engineering and Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments.

B Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 108

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted. 

Interconnectivity with other modes and revenue

sources would be analyzed during preliminary 

engineering and Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 109

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted. 

Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

Vibration levels typically decrease very rapidly 

as the distance from the vibration source 

increases. The vibration levels from high speed 

trains are generally much lower in level than 

freight trains, due to lighter equipment. 

The Tier 2 project level Environmental 

Assessment would analyze potential noise and 

vibration impacts in further detail, if needed.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 110

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project support noted.

B The selected alterative (Route 9) was chosen as 

a result of a three-level analysis process based 

on how well each of the initial alternative 

corridors met the project purpose and need. The 

elements of ridership and intermodal 

connectivity that support the project terminus at 

the Interchange in Minneapolis are presented in 

Section 2.2 of the Tier 1 Service Level 

Environmental Assessments.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 111

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 112

Public Comments and Responses

Comments from Elizabeth Herberg have been addressed 

previously.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 113

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 114

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted. 

The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments will include additional analysis of 

projected ridership, costs and benefit cost 

analysis. Reducing the number of daily trains 

and the top speed would decrease the viability of 

the project.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 115

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.

Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

The Tier 2 project level Environmental 

Assessment would analyze potential noise 

impacts in further detail, if needed.

At the expected speed and train lengths and 

NLX train would pass any given property in 

seconds. Crossing wait times at non-station 

communities would be shorter than typically 

experienced with an average freight train.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 116

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

D

E

A Counties, cities and townships would be invited 

to participate in evaluating their at-grade 

crossings during an on-site diagnostic review to 

determine the appropriate treatment. The 

diagnostic reviews are expected to take place in 

2014.

B Comment noted.

C When projects are developed, stops are 

determined by ridership. For an effective high 

speed rail corridor, competitive time must be 

attained or the project would not achieve the 

necessary public benefit to be deemed eligible 

for future public funding. 

D Safety enhancements such as flashing light 

signals with gates, fencing in urban areas, track 

improvements and communication systems 

upgrades would be addressed in the Tier 2 

Project Level Environmental Assessments (see 

section 3.2.2.2 in the EA).

E Private, gated crossings such as the Braham 

Area Sportsman’s Club, are subject to further 

discussion and will be worked out on a case-bycase basis. By law, no property can be 

landlocked and access must be provided. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 117

Public Comments and Responses

The No Build Alternative would perpetuate the 

existing condition, i.e., no high speed passenger 

rail service between Minneapolis and Duluth. 

The existing track configuration would remain. 

The purpose of the Tier 1 Service Level EA is to 

evaluate the service-wide environmental impacts 

of the alternatives developed to meet the 

project’s purpose and need. In addition, the EA

is used to provide sufficient environmental 

documentation to determine the need, under 

Minnesota state law, for an Environmental 

Impact Statement (EIS) or a Negative 

Declaration and No Significant Impact (FONSI). 

At the Wisconsin state level, Wisconsin 

Administrative Code Chapter TRANS 400 

directs the Wisconsin Department of 

Transportation (WisDOT) to follow NEPA for 

both NEPA and Wisconsin Environmental 

Policy Act (WEPA) purposes when federal 

funds are involved in the proposed action.

MnDOT prepared the Tier 1 Service Level EA 

in compliance with requirements of 42 USC 

4331, et seq (NEPA), FRA’s Procedures for 

Considering Environmental Impacts (64 FR 

28545), MS 116D, and Section 1.11 Wisconsin 

Statutes, Wisconsin Administrative Code, 

TRANS 400. The document also serves as a 

Minnesota Environmental Assessment 

Worksheet (EAW).
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 118

Public Comments and Responses

See response above
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 119

Public Comments and Responses

See response above
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 120

Public Comments and Responses

 

See response above
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 121

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A The travel times are based on concept level 

functional analysis as described in the Northern 

Lights Express Technical Memorandum: 

Functional Analysis of Routes 9, 11, and 11a 

(Level 2 Analysis) December 2010, provided as 

Appendix C-2 of the EA. 

If needed, the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments would include 

additional analysis of train speeds and travel 

times to verify that the proposed action meets 

the project purpose and need. 

B Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 122

Public Comments and Responses

C

D

C Project opposition noted.

D Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 123

Public Comments and Responses

D

See response above
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 124

Public Comments and Responses

E

F

E Project opposition noted.

F Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 125

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 126

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 127

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Initial cost estimates were based on high –level 

concept engineering. The project development 

process involves progressively more detailed 

engineering information that informs revised 

cost estimates. The source of revenue for 

operating and maintenance costs would be 

addressed as part of the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments and preliminary 

engineering. 

B See response A above.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 128

Public Comments and Responses

C

C See response A above.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 129

Public Comments and Responses

D

E

D Ticket prices have not yet been determined but 

would be informed by cost of service, 

relationship to ridership and funding 

considerations. 

E Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 130

Public Comments and Responses

E
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 131

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 132

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 133

Public Comments and Responses

A

A The Tier 2 Project level Environmental 

Assessments would address fencing, crossings,

and safety.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 134

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 135

Public Comments and Responses

B

A

B Comment noted.

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 136

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 137

Public Comments and Responses

B

B The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments include additional analysis of 

projected ridership, costs, and intermodal 

connectivity for passengers continuing beyond 

the immediate vicinity of station locations. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 138

Public Comments and Responses

C

D

C Comment noted.

D Comment noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 139

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A Project opposition noted.

B Initial cost estimates were based on high –level 

concept engineering. The project development 

process involves progressively more detailed 

engineering information that informs revised 

cost estimates. The source of revenue for 

operating and maintenance costs would be 

addressed as part of the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments and preliminary 

engineering.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 140

Public Comments and Responses

B

See response B above
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 141

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 142

Public Comments and Responses

A

 

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 143

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

A The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments include additional analysis of 

projected ridership, costs, and intermodal 

connectivity for passengers continuing beyond 

the immediate vicinity of station locations. 

The methodology for ridership, cost and benefit 

estimates is provided in the Northern Lights 

Express Technical Memorandum: Functional 

Analysis of Routes 9, 11, and 11a (Level 2 

Analysis), December 2010, provided as 

Appendix C-2 of the EA.

B The travel times are based on concept level 

functional analysis as described in the Northern 

Lights Express Technical Memorandum: 

Functional Analysis of Routes 9, 11, and 11a 

(Level 2 Analysis) December 2010, provided as 

Appendix C-2 of the EA. 

If needed, the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments and preliminary 

engineering would include additional analysis of 

train speeds and travel times to verify that the 

proposed action meets the purpose and need of 

the project.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 144

Public Comments and Responses

A

B

C

A Project opposition noted.

B Initial cost estimates were based on high –level 

concept engineering. The project development 

process involves progressively more detailed 

engineering information that informs revised 

cost estimates. The source of revenue for 

operating and maintenance costs would be 

addressed as part of the Tier 2 Project Level 

Environmental Assessments and preliminary 

engineering.

C Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 145

Public Comments and Responses

Comments from John Hottinger about the World’s Fair 

have previously been noted/addressed.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 146

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project opposition noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 147

Public Comments and Responses

B

B Ticket prices have not yet been determined but 

would be informed by cost of service, 

relationship to ridership and funding 

considerations. 
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 148

Public Comments and Responses

C

A

C The Tier 2 Project Level Environmental 

Assessments include additional analysis of 

projected ridership, costs, and intermodal 

connectivity for passengers continuing beyond 

the immediate vicinity of station locations. 

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 149

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 150

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 151

Public Comments and Responses

A

A Project support noted.
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 152

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 153

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 154

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 155

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 156

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 157

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 158

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 159

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 160

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 161

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 162

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 163

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
Comment Response

Northern Lights Express High Speed Passenger Rail Tier 1 EA Page 164

Public Comments and Responses

THIS PAGE INENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

H:\Projects\6894\EP\Reports\FONSI\Response to Comments-May 

2013\DRAFT_NLX FONSI Comments and Responses 

Appendix_130522.docx